Plan your perfect Washington, DC summer adventure with a few off-the-beaten-path ideas.
These afternoon excursions and day trips will guide you through new neighborhoods, warm-weather activities and quintessential summer experiences. Take your pick of specialized one-day itineraries to begin your DC adventure.
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Itinerary 1 – Fourth of July in the Nation’s Capital
There is nothing like experiencing the celebration of independence in Washington, DC.
- Start your day with a reenactment reading of the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives.
- Stick around for the parade along Constitution Avenue, or head over to Nationals Ballpark for an early viewing of America’s pastime – baseball.
- Pop into the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of American History and learn the history of the Star-Spangled Banner.
- Wander along the National Mall and experience the country’s global influences during the free Smithsonian Folklife Festival.
- End your day taking in the star-studded sounds of A Capital Fourth concert in front of the U.S. Capitol while a grand firework display lights up the sky.
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Itinerary 2 – A Capital Oasis: Washington, DC’s Historic Homes and Gardens
Interspersed amongst the monuments and memorials lie a treasure trove of beauty and tranquility.
- Take a morning stroll through the twenty-five acres of serene landscaped gardens and natural woodlands at Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens, while also taking a gander at the most comprehensive collection of Russian imperial art outside of Russia.
- Delight in Tudor Place, one of America’s last intact urban estates from the Federal Period, while enjoying a picnic lunch on the lawn.
- End your journey by recollecting the founding of the nation at Anderson House, a representation of what America's founders hoped their capital city would become.
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Itinerary 3 – Paddle the Sites: Washington, DC Kayak Tour
Get moving and discover why Washington, DC is one of the fittest cities in the United States.
Family canoeing on Potomac River past Kennedy Center, Washington DC
- Enjoy lunch in Georgetown before starting your water adventure.
- From here, you jump on the water. Start with a brief kayaking and safety instruction followed by a self-guided tour around Teddy Roosevelt Island, paddling past iconic DC locations like the Watergate Building, the Lincoln Memorial and the Kennedy Center. See the city from a different perspective. No previous kayaking experience required.
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Itinerary 4 – Culinary Capital: Washington, DC Tasting Tour
In a city with a food scene as rich as the District's, it's never a bad idea to let your appetite be your guide.
Ana Restaurant at District Winery
- Begin your culinary musings by paying a visit to District Donuts – their gourmet offerings truly showcase why breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
- Feed your belly and brain in one of Washington, DC’s unique neighborhoods on a walking food tour.
- Pick up a Michelin Guide and treat yourself to an exquisite dinner.
- Close your day with a nightcap of your choosing – DC offers homegrown beer, wine, gin, rum, bourbon and more. You can hire a guide to take you on a tour of multiple breweries with DC Brew Tours, grab a table on the water at District Winery or order a sampler of local spirits at Farmers and Distillers. Cheers!
